Jazz & Swing from A to Z PART II: The Story of America's Music

Six Thursdays, 12:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
beginning January 29, 2015

Dr. Thom David Mason, USC Professor of Jazz Studies at the Thornton School of Music, returns with a new six-session course sponsored by the USC Emeriti Center College. This time the wildly popular class will offer these scintillating topics:

January 29: The Benny Goodman Story
February 5: The Big Band Stars: Gene Krupa & Lionel Hampton
February 12: Glenn Miller: Icon of the Swing Era
February 19: Harlem Stars of Jazz & Swing
February 26: Singing Jazz & Swing
March 5: Frank Sinatra & the Rat Pack
Thom Mason was chairman of the department of jazz studies at the USC Thornton School of Music from 1983 to 1996. During that period he created the bachelor of music, masters of music and doctor of musical arts programs in jazz studies. He has taught both undergraduate and graduate courses and served as academic advisor. He is a saxophone, clarinet and flute specialist and has played with such notable artists as Sarah Vaughan, Ella Fitzgerald, Tony Bennett, Jack Sheldon, Louis Bellson, and Ernie Watts. 1996 he received the Jazz Educator of the Year Award from the Los Angeles Jazz Society. His multimedia presentations are filled with music excerpts, rare photos, film clips, humorous stories and live demonstrations that stimulate, educate and entertain.
There is no charge for this course, but reservations are required. Hep cats can save a spot by calling the library at 626 300-0777. Please note: because Part I of this class was so popular, the Library has booked the SAN MARINO CENTER next door for Part II so there will be plenty of room!

Meet the Author: Nicole Mones

Nicole Mones: Night in Shanghai
Thursday January 22nd 7:00 p.m.

The Friends of Crowell Public Library’s Meet the Authors series continues with Night in Shanghai, Nicole Mones’ new novel about the collision of jazz, war, and the Holocaust in 1930s China, has been called "Historical fiction at its best," by NPR critic Alan Cheuse. Mones’ nonfiction writing on China has appeared in the New York Times Magazine, the Los Angeles Times, the Washington Post, and Gourmet Magazine.
The story is set in 1936, as classical pianist Thomas Greene is recruited to Shanghai to lead a jazz orchestra of fellow African-American expats. He becomes the toast of a city obsessed with music, money, pleasure and power, even as it ignores the rising winds of war. Song Yuhua is refined and educated, and bonded to Shanghai's most powerful crime boss in payment for her father's gambling debts. She burns with rage and risks her life spying on her master for the Communist Party. Only when Shanghai is shattered by the Japanese invasion do Song and Thomas find their way to each other. Torn between music and survival, freedom and commitment, love and world war, they are borne on an irresistible riff of melody and improvisation to Night in Shanghai's final, impossible choice. In this impressively researched novel, Nicole Mones weaves in a startling true tale of Holocaust heroism little-known in the West.

One of the earliest participants in U.S.-China trade after the Cold War ban was lifted in the nineteen-seventies, NICOLE MONES began doing business in China immediately after the end of the Cultural Revolution. As an individual she traded textiles with China for eighteen years before she turned to writing about that country. Her novels Night in Shanghai, The Last Chinese Chef, Lost in Translation, and A Cup of Light are in print in more than twenty-three languages and have received multiple juried prizes.
This event is free and open to all. Light refreshments will be served. With wonderful Friends like these, the authors keep coming at Crowell Public Library!

LA Opera Talk: The Ghosts of Versailles

Sunday, January 18, 2:00 p.m.

Part of LA Opera’s Figaro Trilogy, this 20th century grand opera buffa, composed by Italian American John Corigliano, premiered in 1991 at the New York Metropolitan Opera. Trapped in the spirit world, the ghost of Marie Antoinette bitterly reflects on her final suffering. Her favorite playwright tries to entertain the melancholy queen with the continuing adventures of his beloved characters from The Barber of Seville and The Marriage of Figaro. But sneaky Figaro refuses to play by the script, breaking free from the opera-within-the-opera in a surprise bid for a better life. Extravagantly scaled, gloriously tuneful, supremely touching and yet uproariously entertaining, The Ghosts of Versailles turns history on its head as love attempts to alter the course of destiny. The LA Opera production will be presented in English with projected English captions.

Crowell Library’s favorite LA Opera Community Educator DIANE BELTOYA will present a free audio-visual presentation on this dazzling opera Sunday, January 18 at 2:00 p.m. in the Library’s Barth Community Room. Light refreshments will be served. Diane is a native of Los Angeles and has studied Classical voice for ten years. She is currently in Pasadena City College's Jazz Vocal program.

Opera is not just magnificent music, dance and theater with astounding sets on a beautiful stage. An opera can sweep you away to foreign lands, take you back in time, dazzle you with pageantry and bring history to life. It is literature, social studies, cultural diversity, multiple languages and most of all, it is exciting! Come explore the world of opera through LA Opera’s education programs. Opera has something for everyone. The program is free and open to all opera aficionados and first timers.

Free Social Security Workshop

Thursday, January 15, 6:30 p.m.

According to famed financial journalist Jane Bryant Quinn, the average retiree leaves thousands of dollars on the table* simply because they don't understand how to optimize their Social Security benefits. This upcoming free workshop at Crowell Public Library offers a chance to avoid this mistake. This informative and easy to understand evening will be led by JOHN PAK, a Certified Financial Planner who will simplify some of the more popular rules as well as the confusing ones. He will revisit the origins of the Social Security system, take a closer look at the mechanics of the program, and explore the ways in which individuals can maximize benefits and avoid the pitfalls. This workshop is open to all who are interested in learning and discussing this federal program. Attendees will receive an opportunity to request a free Social Security personalized assessment. Did you know there are over 500 different ways that enrollees can claim benefits? Or that one can claim 50% of one’s ex-spouse's benefits? Or that one can earn 8% per year for delaying benefits?

John C. Pak has 15 years of experience in the financial services industry. He received a B.A. in Finance through Cal State Fullerton's Mihaylo School of Business and completed financial planning training through NYU. He is very active in spearheading community outreach initiatives with local colleges, public libraries and lifelong learning centers in the greater Los Angeles County area to promote financial literacy and empowerment. John's firm, Searchlight Financial, is the host of KFWB 980AM radio’s “Smart Money Fundamentals.” This workshop has been conducted at numerous Los Angeles area libraries, as well as UCLA extension, UCR extension, UCSB extension, Cal State University of Long Beach (OLLI) and Cal State University of Fullerton (OLLI).

People who have worked hard all their lives should get the most out of their benefits by attending this free seminar Thursday, January 15th at 6:30 p.m. at Crowell Public Library.

*http://www.aarp.org/work/social-security/info-10-2013/when-to-claim-social-security-benefits.html

Free Rose Pruning Workshop

Saturday, January 10th, 9:00-11:00 a.m.


Ron Serven, Environmental Services Manager/City Arborist for San Marino will conduct his 22nd annual rose pruning workshop on Saturday, January 10, 2015, and give even the most inexperienced gardeners the knowledge to promote healthy, beautiful rose blooming when spring comes around. Learn the techniques in just an hour or so and be ready to work in companionship with nature in no time.

A former City Parks Division Manager, Ron’s expertise with roses is still visible throughout the city, particularly at Lacy Park. Many rose lovers have benefited from and attended repeat performances of Ron’s workshop at Crowell Library. He will demonstrate optimum rose pruning techniques and answer questions from the audience, such as what to do in cold weather, or how to deal with irregular rainfall. Those who attend will be ready to go out into their own yards the very same day to get the job done. Attendees will get a better sense of how Mother Nature works and will soon be spending some enjoyable time in their home gardens, armed with the knowledge to keep it thriving and beautiful.

This workshop is free and reservations are not required, but if you have questions, please call the library (626) 300-0777, extension 579.

New at Crowell Public Library: Early Literacy Computer

Many thanks go to Crowell Public Library Trustees MARY HSU and DEBRA SADUN who have generously donated an AWE Early Literacy Station to the Children’s Room at the Library. The Early Literacy Station (ELS) is a dynamic all-in-one digital learning solution for children ages 2-8. It features more than 70 educational software applications spanning seven curricular areas. The educational programs are displayed using engaging graphics and intuitive menus. From Math Doodles and Speakaboos e-books to Dora the Explorer, there is something special available for every child's learning preference. These stations have been immensely popular at libraries all across the Southland.

Early Literacy Station™ Version 11 designed for children 2–8 years old—features 16 new programs that kids will love to explore including: Goldilocks and the Three Bears, The Gingerbread Man, Harry and the Haunted House, Help Me 2 Learn – Letters, Help Me 2 Learn – Numbers, Little Monster at School, Math Arena and Miss Humblebee’s Academy.

“Recent research supports an interactive and experiential process of learning spoken and written language skills that begins in early infancy. We now know that children gain significant knowledge of language, reading, and writing long before they enter school. Children learn to talk, read, and write through such social literacy experiences as adults or older children interacting with them sing
books and other literacy materials…”*

The station will be on display for the Library’s Open House, Saturday, January 24, 2015 from 10:00 to 2:00 p.m. To find the new Literacy Station at the Library, just go to the Children’s Room and look for the long line!


*Boston University Medical Center Erikson Institute And Zero To Three:
http://www.zerotothree.org/child-development/early-language-literacy/earlyliteracy2pagehandout.pdf

Reasons a Retiree’s Portfolio Loses Money with Kenneth Sanchez

Monday November 17th 7:00 p.m.

How often are a retiree’s investments held without adequate analysis and attention to detail? When we are working, we’re too busy and when we retire, is it too late? According to Morningstar, “your investment portfolio requires regular reviews... You need to supervise it, just as your manager supervises you, to make sure it stays on track.”* - are your investments performing according to goals and expectations? Is a yearly analysis sufficient? The focus of this informational session will be to understand the foundation of proper analysis and how to remain mindful of the current economic impact on an individual’s finances. Learn how to avoid the most over looked mistakes and strategies which can strengthen financial results and peace of mind.

Presenter KENNETH A. SANCHEZ is Vice President of Floe Financial Partners has worked in the financial advisory industry for 20 years. Kenneth is a frequent speaker for a number of the largest non-profit organizations in Southern California on such topics as financial planning and strategic investment management.

*http://www.morningstar.co.uk/uk/news/65252/monitoring-your-portfolios-characteristics.aspx

LA Opera Talk Catan’s Florencia en el Amazonas

Sunday, November 16, 2:00 p.m.

A steamboat passage through the fabled rainforest becomes a mystical voyage of discovery, each passenger harboring secret hopes of what the trip will bring. Among them, a famous prima donna hopes to recapture the great love of her life. Reality and fantasy intertwine as the dangerous splendors of the Amazon test the travelers’ preconceptions of their hopes and dreams. The Los Angeles Opera Production of Florencia en el Amazonas features the sensational Chilean soprano Verónica Villarroel as Florencia, along with soprano Lisette Oropesa. A ravishingly beautiful score by the late Daniel Catán, the beloved composer of Il Postino, shimmers with passionate melodies and sumptuous orchestrations reminiscent of Puccini and Debussy. Inspired by the writings of Gabriel García Márquez, Florencia en el Amazonas paints an intoxicating portrait of the transformative nature of love.

LA Opera Community Educator STEVE KOHN will present a free audio-visual presentation on this dazzling opera on Sunday, November 16 at 2:00 p.m. in the Library’s Barth Community Room. Steve fondly recalls his first opera when he was a college freshman: Lucia di Lammermoor by Donizetti, and it was “love at first hear.” His enthusiasm and devotion to Los Angeles Opera has been growing for over fifteen years: he is a charter subscriber and a member of the Board of the Opera League as well as being a Community Educator. Steve is a retired professional from the sports marketing world who chooses to spend his leisure time enlightening one and all about this beautiful art form.

Opera is not just magnificent music, dance and theater with astounding sets on a beautiful stage. An opera can sweep you away to foreign lands, take you back in time, dazzle you with pageantry and bring history to life. It is literature, social studies, cultural diversity, multiple languages and most of all, it is exciting! Come explore the world of opera through LA Opera’s education programs. Opera has something for everyone. The program is free and open to all opera aficionados and first timers. Light refreshments will be served.

Helping Hands for Hand-Held Devices

Monday, November 3, 6:00 p.m.
or
Saturday, November 8, 2:00 pm

Electronically savvy students from San Marino High School will be available on Monday night, November 3 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. and again on Saturday afternoon, November 8 from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Crowell Public Library’s Thornton Room to help people figure out how to use their hand-held devices. People can sign up for either of the free sessions. Many people have iPods, Androids, tablets, iPhones, and other gadgets these days, but can’t figure out all of the features. The teen volunteers are familiar with many of the concepts behind these devices, so even if they haven’t used a particular device, they may be able to help a person figure out what to do. The Los Angeles Times covered a previous session earlier this year and posted a story about it at http://lat.ms/1sODdVg.
If you are frustrated with online and telephone support options, come to Crowell Library and work with a living, breathing techie that will help you “bond” with your device. There’s nothing like one-on-one assistance to help solve problems and tackle sticky widgets. Crowell Library thanks Alice Computerworks, a store offering computer sales and services in San Marino, for providing light refreshments to fuel the young volunteers and provide a friendly environment for those attending.
To reserve your spot for this program and spend time getting a better understanding of your device, please call 626-300-0777, extension 579 as soon as possible. There are a limited number of teen volunteers, so slots will fill quickly.

Friends of Crowell Public Library Meet the Authors Series: Susan Rosvall: Silence is Broken

Wednesday November 5th 7:00 p.m.

The Friends of Crowell Public Library’s Meet the Authors series continues with Susan Rosvall, whose first novel, Silence is Broken, is about a naïve young private on a howitzer crew at Phu Loi base camp, Vietnam circa 1966. There he encounters an illiterate Klansman from rural Alabama who launches a series of increasingly homicidal attacks against him. The Private gains respect among the men when he confronts his nemesis and emerges a true hero during an attack where he saves the lives of eighty men. Swirling with local color and hard facts, the novel reveals a compelling story of survival, growth, and heroism, grounded in the history of the times. Silence is Broken is about self-reliance and personal courage, the metamorphic qualities of war and the healing power of empathy. At the broadest and most universal level, it’s about informed citizenship and the just use of deadly force. Learn some fascinating insights into this amazing story direct from the author on Wednesday November 5th at 7:00 p.m. in the Library’s Barth Community Room.

Since 1998, Susan Rosvall has taught English Composition at California State University, Los Angeles. Over the past several years, she has developed a theme-based course on just war theory. Recently, she has traveled to Vietnam and the Southern United States, where she researched the Vietnam Conflict and the American Civil Rights Movement, respectively. Ms. Rosvall received a B.A. in English from the University of California at Los Angeles, an M.S. in Education from the University of Southern California, and an M.A. in TESOL (linguistics) from California State University, Los Angeles. She is the mother of three and resides in San Marino with her husband.

This event is free and open to all. Light refreshments will be served. With wonderful Friends like these, the authors keep coming at Crowell Public Library!

LA Opera Talk Purcell’s Dido & Aeneas Sunday, October 26, 2:00 p.m.

In baroque composer Henry Purcell’s Dido and Aeneas, an intimately scaled tragedy, a queen falls prey to the machinations of a formidable enemy, losing her heart to a man who abruptly abandons her. It is England’s oldest opera (yes, in English!) and a classic tragedy based on Virgil’s Aeneid. Dido and Aeneas is remembered as one of Purcell's foremost theatrical works and it was also his first opera, and his only all-sung dramatic work. The music has been long renowned for its splendid beauty. LA Opera Community Educator SEAN MUHLSTEIN will present the background on this stunning work in the Barth Community Room, Sunday, October 26th at 2:00 p.m. Sean is also a board member of the Opera League of Los Angeles and is eager to share his expertise with one and all.

Opera is not just magnificent music, dance and theater with astounding sets on a beautiful stage. An opera can sweep you away to foreign lands, take you back in time, dazzle you with pageantry and bring history to life. It is literature, social studies, cultural diversity, multiple languages and most of all, it is exciting! Come explore the world of opera through LA Opera’s education programs. Opera has something for everyone.

The program is free and open to all opera aficionados and first timers. Light refreshments will be served.

Meditation for Memory & Brain Functioning

Thursday, October 23, 7:00 p.m.

In this workshop, a meditation technique from the Kundalini Yoga tradition called Kirtan Kriya will be explored. Practicing this technique just twelve minutes a day has been shown to not only improve health and well-being: studies suggest that it can also lead to a reduction in cellular aging (1) and that it increases brain activity in areas central to memory and improves cognition and well-being in patients with memory loss (2). This meditation technique increases activity in areas of the brain which are central to memory and which are the first to decrease in function when a person develops Alzheimer's disease. The studies also suggest that it could be "possible, therefore, that if everyone did Kirtan Kriya...on a regular basis, the number of people who develop Alzheimer's would diminish." (3)

This technique can be done seated in a chair, lying down, or seated on a mat or cushion. No prior meditation or yoga experience or any level of flexibility or fitness is needed. Attendees will do a few gentle stretches, discuss the technique and its origins, and then practice together. Yogi tea will be offered after practice.

This workshop will last an hour and thirty minutes and will be facilitated by CECILIA REARDON, Yoga Alliance Registered Yoga Teacher, who is certified by the Kundalini Research Institute. Participants will be seated in chairs, but if they wish to sit on mats on the floor, they are welcome to and should bring their own mat or cushion.

You won't want to miss this free workshop at Crowell Library Thursday, October 23 at 7:00 p.m.

The Man Who Made the Jailhouse Rock: Alex Romero, Hollywood Choreographer

with author Mark Knowles
Sunday October 12th 2:00 p.m.

Choreographer Alex Romero created Jailhouse Rock, the iconic Elvis Presley production number, but never received screen credit for his contribution. MARK KNOWLES, who traced the history of tap dancing in his acclaimed book, Tap Roots, has written a lively book on Romero which he will discuss at Crowell Library on October 12 at 2:00 p.m. Known for his inventive style and creative use of props, Alex Romero was instrumental in bringing rock and roll to the screen. Knowles’ biography includes first-person accounts of Romero’s collaborations with Gene Kelly, Fred Astaire, Judy Garland, Frank Sinatra, and others.

The son of a Mexican general, Romero escaped the Mexican Revolution, joined his family's vaudeville dance act and became a dancer in Hollywood. Part of Jack Cole's exclusive Columbia dance troupe, he was eventually hired as a staff assistant at MGM, where he worked on Take Me Out to the Ballgame, American in Paris, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, and On the Town, among many others. When Romero transitioned into full-time choreography, he created the dances for numerous films, including Love Me or Leave Me, I'll Cry Tomorrow, Tom Thumb, Whatever Happened to Baby Jane, and additional movies for Elvis.

Mark Knowles has directed and/or choreographed over 300 productions nationally and internationally, from Buenos Aires to Broadway, as well as innumerable film and television productions. Locally, he has taught dance at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, La Salle High School, Occidental College and UC Irvine. Mr. Knowles is the author of four books, The Tap Dance Dictionary, Tap Roots: The Early History of Tap Dancing,(winner of the American Library Association’s Choice Award for Outstanding Academic Text), and The Wicked Waltz and Other Scandalous Dances.

A Brass Quartet in concert

Thursday, October 9th, 7:00 p.m.

Come to Crowell Library for a night of fabulous music from the Brass Quartet led by San Marino Music Center instructor, Kory McMaster. The program will feature both classical and modern works, from Bach to Holst and even film scores such as "How to Train Your Dragon." The San Marino Brass Quartet consists of Kory McMaster and Michelle Lane on trumpets, Nolan Markey on French horn, and Julius Lopez on trombone. The concert will delight audience members of all ages. The concert is sponsored by the San Marino Music Center and the Friends of Crowell Public Library. No reservations are necessary, but seating is limited for this very popular series.

Kory McMaster is a freelance musician, film composer, and orchestrator. He graduated with a B.M. in Music Composition from Azusa Pacific University where he studied with renowned trumpet instructor Robert Slack. Kory currently works as an orchestrator at Sparks and Shadows under television composer Bear McCreary working on shows such as The Walking Dead, Da Vinci’s Demons, and Marvel’s Agents of Shield. Kory is incredibly passionate about teaching, striving to provide his students with the same opportunities that his instructors provided for him.

Michelle Lane (trumpet) has toured much of the US and currently plays in the house band for the late night talk show “Noches Con Plantanito.” Michelle has performed at Elvis Presley’s Graceland, the Jonathan Club in Los Angeles, Monterey Next Generation Jazz Festival, and the Grove and Americana in Los Angeles. She also studied with Robert Slack at Azusa Pacific University where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in commercial trumpet performance and was offered a full scholarship from Azusa Pacific to pursue a Master’s Degree. Michelle also teaches master classes at various high schools.

Nolan Markey (French horn) began studying piano at the age of five, but was absolutely terrible at it and decided to pursue trumpet instead. Later he added French horn to his musical palette and has been playing ever since. Nolan is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Film Music Composition at California State University, Northridge and frequently works as a copyist and composer. For the last several years, he has served as the staff brass instructor at Pete Knight High School in Palmdale, California.
Julius Lopez began playing trombone in ninth grade. He was a nursing student at Cal State Fullerton, but was coaxed by Robert Slack to attend Citrus College and pursue music. He eventually graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Music from Azusa Pacific University. As a trombonist Julius has performed throughout the United States. He has played at venues such as the Walt Disney Concert Hall, Catalina Jazz Club, Newport Jazz Festival, and has backed up artists such as Rob Reiner, Sammy Nestico, Marc Shaiman, Scott Whitfield, and Dale Kristien.

You won’t want to miss this evening of free music at Crowell Library. Light refreshments will be served.

Maezie’s Pumpkin Patch

Friends of Crowell Public Library Meet the Authors Series:
author Lynn Snowden and illustrator Kyle Kennedy Powell:
Wednesday October 8th 7:00 p.m.

Each autumn, Pasadena resident and avid gardener Maezie Powell would donate her prize-winning pumpkins to the Children’s Garden at the Huntington Library. In August of 2012, vandals destroyed Maezie’s pumpkin patch. The story made the newspapers and the TV news. The crime was never solved, but it brought out Maezie’s neighbors who offered their help and support. Neighbors who had never met their neighbors helped put the garden back in shape. Maezie also received pumpkin seeds, cards and letters from all over the country. When Maezie showed her friend, Lynn, the collection of letters and cards, Lynn was so moved she went home and wrote a story about it that night. Lynn then asked Maezie's grandaughter, Kyle, to illustrate it. And, so the creation of a heartwarming children's book began. Come to Crowell Public Library on Wednesday, October 8 at 7:00 p.m. to Meet the Authors in the Barth Community Room.

Lynn Martin Snowden has devoted her life to children and their creative endeavors. Teaching students of all ages for over 36 years, her career has spanned both coasts of the United States in a variety of disciplines. Currently, she is an educator in southern California. Maezie’s Pumpkin Patch is her first children’s book. Kyle Sydney Powell grew up surrounded by a family of artists and can always be found with a pencil or camera in her hand. She received her MFA in New York and has been a graphic artist, and an art instructor for both children and adults. She lives just blocks from the great pumpkin patch.

Maezie Powell, a remarkably youthful ninety-five year-old, gives her pumpkin seeds to all who are interested in creating a garden of their own. Crowell Library and their Friends are hoping to see Ms. Powell in person at this very special evening!
Other local authors participating in this series: Susan Rosvall (Silence is Broken) in November, Nicole Mones (Night in Shanghai) in January, Chris Lynch (One Eyed Jack) in February and Mona Simpson (Casebook: a Novel) in March. With Friends like these, the authors keep coming at Crowell Public Library!

Finding the Heart of America: Highway 50

Six Thursdays beginning October 2

What were the noble ideas that shaped our nation and how have these ideas played out across the country? In this special series, Highway 50 will be used to explore America from its founding, early development, civil war, and westward expansion, to the present day. Time Magazine has called U.S. Highway 50 the “main street of America,” so what better vehicle to explore the country? It extends from Maryland’s eastern shore to Sacramento and passes through Washington, D.C., Cincinnati, St. Louis, Kansas City and the heartland of America. This will not be a traditional travelogue or history class. Instead, PROFESSOR DAVID MARSH will present seven themes about the nature of America and all participants will work together to seek the heart of America using Highway 50 as an anchor, prompt, and storyboard. The class will be lively, entertaining, and interactive— with all perspectives, questions, and stories welcomed to complete the view of the U.S. from the perspective of “main street” and to answer, “What Is America Today?”
This series is free and open to the public, but registration is required. Simply call the Library’s reference desk at (626) 300-0777 ext. 579 and reserve a space. Walk-in registration is also welcomed. Sessions will take place in the Library’s Barth Community Room on the following Thursdays: October 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 and November 6, 2014, from 12:30 – 2:30 p.m.

Professor David Marsh has spent the last decade exploring America along Highway 50. In the style of Charles Kuralt, he has driven every mile of the highway, talked with many locals along the route, visited key museums and sites, and read local newspapers. He brings stories, photos, reflections, and a decade of experiences to share. At USC, Marsh was the Associate Dean for Academic Programs in the Rossier School of Education and the Robert A. Naslund Professor of Curriculum and Instruction.

Parking is free behind the Library and on the street. For further Information contact Jerome B. Walker, Ph.D., Director, jbwalker@usc.edu or Judith C. Diaz, Assistant Director, judydiaz@usc.edu (213) 740-8841 or visit USC Emeriti Center College http://emeriticollege.usc.edu

LA Opera Talk with Live Performances!

Verdi’s La Traviata
Sunday, September 21, 2:00 p.m.

The LA Opera season starts with Giuseppe Verdi's classic romance, La Traviata, one of the most popular operas today. And the LA Opera Talk series at Crowell Library starts off in a very special way, with performances by soprano MARIANA RAMIREZ, singing selections from the opera in the role of Violeta, along with baritone ERIC CASTRO singing the role of Alfredo, with pianist ABRAHAM FABELLA accompanying. The dazzlingly Art Deco-inspired LA Opera production at the Music Center features Placido Domingo in a Roaring Twenties setting.

Acclaimed by Review Plays as a "genuine opera star in progress, with a voice that has a rich quality and clarity," Mariana Ramirez is becoming widely recognized for her performances. In the role of Antonia in Tales of Hoffman, she was claimed by Harbor Independent News as “the evening’s standout with her warm, luxurious voice that encompasses romantic and poignant moments with a sympathetic presence.” This season, she performed Lia in Debussy’s L’Enfant Prodigue and in Mozart’s Requiem as a soloist under the direction of James Vail. She received her Master of Music degree with Distinction at California State University Northridge 2011 and Bachelor of Music degree in Vocal Performance cum laude.

As a baritone soloist, Eric Castro has appeared multiple times at Walt Disney Concert Hall, Shrine Auditorium, Long Beach Carpenter Centre, Las Vegas Smith Center, and Redlands Bowl. He was recently featured with the String Orchestra Project in Bach’s Cantata Ich Habe Genug, and with San Diego Festival Orchestra in Dvorak’s Te Deum. Eric earned his B.A. from Yale University, where he studied art, music and drama; and his Juris Doctor from USC’s Gould School of Law. Eric is a Corporate Partner in the law firm of LEWIS BRISBOIS BISGAARD & SMITH LLP.

Accompanist Abraham Fabella is a composer, pianist, and conductor who received graduate degrees in composition from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music and at the University of California, Riverside and additional graduate training at UCLA. Mr. Fabella is a much sought-after vocal coach and collaborative pianist.
Ray Busmann has worked as an artist and educator both in his native Germany and in Southern California for over 30 years. He enjoys sharing his passion for opera with audiences of all ages. This is Ray's third season as a volunteer Community Educator for LA Opera and he will undoubtedly reveal some fascinating facts in his presentation in the Library’s Barth Community Room. Arrive a bit early as this program will undoubtedly fill up. The program is free and open to all opera aficionados and first timers. Light refreshments will be served.

Crowell: First Library in the World to Offer Dakim Brain Fitness

The Girls in the Band

Thursday September 18th 6:30 p.m.

They wiggled, they jiggled, they wore low-cut gowns and short shorts. They kow-towed to the club owners and smiled at the customers… and they did it all, just to play the music they loved. THE GIRLS IN THE BAND tells the poignant, untold stories of female jazz and big band instrumentalists and their fascinating, groundbreaking journeys from the late 20s to the present day. These incredibly talented women endured sexism, racism and diminished opportunities for decades, yet continue today to persevere, inspire and elevate their talents in a field that seldom welcomed them.

Attending this special screening will be DR. THOM DAVID MASON, who taught the very popular Jazz & Swing from A to Z at Crowell Library earlier this year, and JUDY CHAIKIN, who produced and directed the film. Dr. Mason is the founder of the Jazz Studies Department at the Thornton School of Music, USC, and was so impressed with The Girls in the Band, he’s seen it multiple times. He also knows some of the musicians featured in the film so he will have many insights to share with the audience.

Director/Producer Judy Chaikin is best known for writing, producing and directing the Emmy nominated PBS documentary, Legacy of the Hollywood Blacklist. She is a graduate of AFI’s Directing Workshop for Women. Regarding her film, The Girls in the Band, Judy says, “We hope that the great joy we all had in learning about these amazing women, will be shared by the viewers and that the film will bring these artists the admiration and respect they so rightly deserve. This film is my tribute to their courage and musical artistry, which has never been properly celebrated… Our greatest satisfaction will come if this film can inspire a new crop of young female jazz musicians to stand on the shoulders of those early pioneers and to reach for the stars.”

Crowell Library is very fortunate to have these two guests at this special screening that is free for one and all. Don’t miss it!

John Wood: Life in the Peace Corps

Sunday September 14th 2:00 p.m.

Learn about the adventures experienced by author JOHN WOOD, from the two years he spent teaching high school English in the Philippines when the Friends of Crowell Public Library begin their 2014 Meet the Authors series, Sunday, September 14. A former senior editor at AARP Magazine, John Wood will show slides and relay some amazing tales of his two years in the village of Sibulan working at, "the toughest job you'll ever love."* John grew up in Pasadena, has a degree in journalism from UCLA and has published a plethora of articles for the Los Angeles Times, Washington Post and Miami Herald. Among his book publications, How to Write Attention-Grabbing Query and Cover Letters and a soon-to-be-published title on his experiences during the Vietnam War where he earned a bronze star.

Although times have changed since the Peace Corps' founding in 1961, the agency's mission—to promote world peace and friendship—has not. Today, the Peace Corps is more vital than ever, working in collaboration with partner organizations and using cutting-edge technologies and well-tested best practices to enhance impact. Over 215,000 current and returned volunteers know that the Peace Corps changes lives—both their own and the lives of people in communities around the world. When they return home, like John Wood, they share their stories and experiences and give back to their own communities, helping to strengthen international ties and increase our global competitiveness.

Experience firsthand insight into this special service at 2:00 p.m. in the Barth Community Room, Sunday, September 14th at Crowell Public Library. Other local authors in the Meet the Authors series will include Lynn Snowden and Kyle Sydney Powell (Maezie’s Pumpkin Patch) in October and Susan Rosvall (Silence is Broken) in November. With Friends like these, the authors keep coming at Crowell Public Library.

Senior Scam Stopper!

September 8th 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Seniors are a vulnerable audience, often preyed upon by unlicensed or unscrupulous contractors. Learn about the types of scams that are targeting seniors and how to avoid falling prey to them. This free seminar will be the first in a series held at Crowell Public Library’s Barth Community Room, and will feature experts from government agencies on topics such as home improvement projects, identity theft, auto repair, healthcare fraud and investments. Senior Scam Stopper seminars have been offered by the California State Contractors License Board throughout the state since 1999 in cooperation with legislators, state and local agencies, law enforcement, district attorneys, and community-based organizations.

According to the National Council on Aging,* financial scams targeting seniors have become so prevalent that they’re now considered “the crime of the 21st century.” They often go unreported or can be difficult to prosecute, so they’re considered a “low-risk” crime. However, they're devastating to many older adults and can leave them in a very vulnerable position with little time to recoup their losses. In addition, the Council tells us over 90% of all reported elder abuse is committed by an older person’s own family members, most often their adult children, followed by grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Other types of scams targeting seniors include counterfeit prescription drugs, funeral and cemetery scams, telemarketing, internet fraud, homeowners/reverse mortgage scams and fraudulent sweepstakes or lotteries.
In addition to providing information about construction-related scams and how seniors can protect themselves when hiring a contractor, this seminar will feature expert speakers from local, state and federal agencies, who present broader topics, including identity theft, auto repair, and investments.
Don’t miss this important seminar on Monday September 8th at 10:00 a.m. at Crowell Library.

Food Allergies: for the Patient and the Family

with Dr. Karl von Tiehl
Monday, June 23, 7:00 p.m.

We are facing a new health epidemic in this country: that of food allergies. Over the past few decades, food allergy rates have skyrocketed to the point where now approximately 1 in every 13 children and 1 in every 20 adults are affected.1 In our grandparents’ time, nobody in their whole town had a food allergy, in our parents’ time, maybe one child in their school had a food allergy; now there’s two or three in every classroom with rates increasing even more from 1997 to 2007 (up 18%, to be exact).2 The reasons for it are unclear, and the general public’s (and even primary care physicians’) misunderstanding of the issue may put patients’ lives at unnecessary risk.3
San Marino’s and South Pasadena’s only allergist, DR. KARL VON TIEHL, will be coming to the Crowell Public Library on Monday, June 23rd at 7:00 pm to give an hour lecture on food allergies and to lead a round table Q&A discussion on this important topic. We encourage all patients with food allergies and all adult and older teenage family members of patients with food allergies to attend. The lecture will cover what is (and what is not) food allergy, which medical conditions are related to food allergy, which foods are responsible for most allergic reactions, which infant formulas are safe to use, when and how to first introduce different food allergens to a child, which vaccinations might cause reactions in patients with food allergies, what kinds of allergy testing are available, how to best avoid exposure to food allergens (including a discussion on the controversial “food allergy table” at school), how to treat allergic reactions when they happen and how to live life to its fullest with food allergies (including social issues).

Dr. Karl von Tiehl is a double board-certified Allergist/Immunologist, who trained at the Scripps Clinic in San Diego, and the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN. Upon graduating, Dr. von Tiehl spent over three years as a faculty member of the Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center’s prestigious Division of Allergy and Immunology. Dr. von Tiehl grew up in Pasadena and enjoys helpings patients that suffer from allergic disorders, just like he did when he was a child.
Join us for a fascinating look at an important health issue Monday, June 23 at 7:00 p.m. in the Barth Community Room at Crowell Library.

1Sampson H. Update on Food Allergy. J Allergy Clin immunol. 2004;113:805-19
2Branum AM and Lukacs SL. Food Allergy Among Children in the United States. Pediatrics. 2009;124[6]:1549-1555
3Gupta RS, et al. Food Allergy Knowledge, Attitudes and Beliefs of Primary Care Physicians. Pediatrics. 2010;125[1]:126-132

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For more information, visit our website www.CrowellPublicLibrary.org
1890 Huntington Drive, San Marino, California 91108

Crowell First Library in the World to Offer Dakim Brain Fitness

For the past four months, Crowell Public Library in San Marino has been offering Dakim Brain Fitness on a trial basis to see if it was something patrons would utilize -- and utilize they did -- to such an extent the Library has acquired two Dakim Fitness setups, becoming the first library in the world to do so! Patrons are now welcome to come in for multiple sessions as the makers of Dakim recommend its use three to five times a week for 20 minutes. To schedule their sessions, they only need to call the Library at (626) 300-0777 extension 579.

Dakim Brain Fitness is an engaging software program specifically designed for people over 60 who want to exercise their brains. It can help revitalize mental acuity and has been shown in clinical tests to improve memory, attention, focus, and concentration. Recent retirees or seniors may find Dakim to be a great way to spend part of the day while giving their brains a little workout. There are five different levels, so users can find the one that suits them best. People who have already experienced some memory and cognitive loss may find that participating in the Dakim program improves their ability to focus.

Everyone’s heard the old adage, “If you don’t use it, you’ll lose it,” and that is not only true of our muscles, but our brains as well. Dakim is designed to provide a comprehensive brain workout in just 20 minutes a day. It features vivid graphics, music, humor, movie clips, stories, and trivia to keep the program interesting, engaging, and fun. The touch screen environment makes it easy, even if the user hasn’t used computers in the past. No keyboard, no mouse are used. The user just listens, watches, and touches the screen to select a response.

The Library is still offering orientations that demonstrate Dakim. Call (626) 300-0777 and ask for the Reference Desk to sign up. After the orientation, patrons can schedule more sessions.

Pasadena Showcase House of Design: Stories Behind the 50th Anniversary Book

Wednesday, May 28, 7:00 p.m.

What weighs four pounds two ounces, took over two years and thousands of hours to create, and unveils intriguing facts about 50 of the most magnificent homes in the San Gabriel Valley? The answer: 50 Years of Pasadena Showcase Design Houses: Supporting the Arts Through Design, a commemorative book produced by 19 dedicated Pasadena Showcase House for the Arts (PSHA) members. Three of these members, Noel Jeffrey, Rary Simmons and Weta Mathies will join Book Committee Chair, Fran Biles at Crowell Public Library on May 28 at 7:00 p.m. to regale one and all with fascinating stories that were highlighted as the book was researched. They will lead attendees through architectural eras ranging from the mid- 1960’s to 2014, explain how a Showcase House is chosen, and may even reveal which home is said to have a ghostly resident.

The book also chronicles PSHA’s philanthropic work over the years. A visit to the Showcase Houses benefits the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra, the PSHA Music Mobile™, a Youth Concert, and the Pasadena Showcase House Instrumental Competition. The PSHA volunteers are united by a belief in the power and beauty of music. Their collective desire is to fund programs that nurture the study and appreciation of music, utilize music as a vehicle towards health and healing, and ensure that music is available to a broad range of audiences.

For more information about PSHA, the Pasadena Showcase House of Design, visit www.PasadenaShowcase.org. or call 626-578-8500.

Come to Crowell Library May 28th to learn about these architectural gems that have been highlighted through the fabulous work by one of Pasadena’s most treasured charities.

Free Concert: a Jazz Quartet

The Friends of Crowell Library and
San Marino Music Center present A Jazz Quartet
Thursday, June 12, 7:00 p.m.

The third installment of the Crowell music series sponsored by the San Marino Music Center and the Friends of Crowell Library will feature a quartet led by music instructors AMBER NAVRAN (alto saxophone, vocals), JASON GOLDAY (guitar), and VICTOR CARRACEDO (drums). The musicians, all from the San Marino Music Center, will be performing “straight ahead” jazz, including many different styles such as bop, swing, Bossa, Latin as well as some pop vocal standards. In that mix, you’ll likely hear tunes from such artists as Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie, Kenny Dorham, Miles Davis and many others. This free concert will take place in the Library’s Barth Community Room, and all ages welcome. No reservations are necessary.

Amber Navran earned a Bachelor of Music from the USC’s prestigious Jazz Studies program and
has been teaching students of all ages since high school. Jason Golday studied Jazz and Classical Guitar at Indiana University in Bloomington, receiving his BM in Performance. He received his MFA in Jazz Guitar Performance from California Institute of the Arts. Jason has over fifteen years of public and private teaching experience and also composes music for commercials, short films and silent films. Victor A Carrracedo studied at L'AULA de Jazz de Barcelona under the mentorship of Quim Sole, where he graduated with honors in 2011. Victor graduated Suma Cum Laude with a Master of Music degree from Berklee. As an instructor, Victor stresses fundamentals such as technique and sight reading. His ultimate goal is to share his knowledge about drums with students and seeing them grow as musicians.

For more information on the San Marino Music Center, visit:
http://www.sanmarinomusiccenter.com/index.html.
The more the merrier! Share this event on Facebook & Twitter.
https://www.facebook.com/CrowellPublicLibrarySanMarino
https://twitter.com/crowellpl
For more information, visit our website www.CrowellPublicLibrary.org
1890 Huntington Drive, San Marino, California 91108

PAWS TO READ!

Adult Summer Reading Program June 9 – July 19, 2014

At Crowell Public Library, the kids aren’t the only ones having fun this summer. Adults 18 years and up can register for the Adult Summer Reading Club, which has the theme Paws To Read this year. Registration is easy at the Adult Reference Desk where you’ll receive a Paws To Read goodie bag and all the information you will need for upcoming programs, prizes and movies:

PAWS TO READ! Register and win prizes!
Beginning June 9th, readers age 18 and up can register for the program at the Adult Reference Desk. Receive a PAWS goodie bag and learn how you can be eligible for weekly prizes.

PAWS To Watch!
The PAWS theme begins with movies to make you sit up and beg for more!

THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 10:00 A.M.
Best in Show (2000)
Join the fun as a colorful array of competitors vie for the top prize at the Mayflower Kennel Club!
THURSDAY, JULY 17, 10:00 A.M.
Marley & Me (2008)
Jennifer Aniston and Owen Wilson unleash huge laughs as a young couple contemplating the
decision to start a family… and then came Marley...

PAWS To Learn… All About Pet Nutrition
MONDAY JUNE 16, 7:00PM
An owner's decision about what to feed his or her pet has become a more complex question than it once was. Dr. Stan Avezov from Pasadena Pets Veterinary Hospital will tell us what the two most useful pieces of information on a pet food label are and answer questions related to byproducts, raw diets and grain-free diets.

PAWS To Learn… All About the Pasadena SPCA
MONDAY, JULY 14, 7:00 P.M.
Learn all about the Pasadena Humane Society’s Animal Care Center and what great services are offered for pet owners in Arcadia, Glendale, La Cañada-Flintridge, Pasadena, Monrovia, San Marino, Sierra Madre as well as Pasadena and South Pasadena.

PAWS To Give! Pasadena SPCA Wish List Drive
Bring a new, wrapped treat for a pet waiting to be adopted: dog biscuit treats, lamb and rice jerky dog treats, stainless steel cat or dog bowls (small or medium) litter boxes (low sided), dog waste bags (biodegradable and compostable), toys… full list available at Adult Reference Desk.

All participants of the summer reading program regardless of age are eligible to submit a Pet Portrait: get the details when you register. All library patrons are welcome to enjoy the programs and movies this summer at Crowell Public Library, but official PAWS readers interested in prizes must register at the Adult Reference Desk.

Please note during the summer the city parking lots next to the Library will be closed for resurfacing. Entrance to the Crowell Library parking lot can be made through the exit off West Drive. Please drive safely and enjoy your summer reading!

Pasadena Showcase House of Design: Stories Behind the 50th Anniversary Book

Wednesday, May 28, 7:00 p.m.

What weighs four pounds two ounces, took over two years and thousands of hours to create, and unveils intriguing facts about 50 of the most magnificent homes in the San Gabriel Valley? The answer: 50 Years of Pasadena Showcase Design Houses: Supporting the Arts Through Design, a commemorative book produced by 19 dedicated Pasadena Showcase House for the Arts (PSHA) members. Three of these members, Noel Jeffrey, Rary Simmons and Weta Mathies will join Book Committee Chair, Fran Biles at Crowell Public Library on May 28 at 7:00 p.m. to regale one and all with fascinating stories that were highlighted as the book was researched. They will lead attendees through architectural eras ranging from the mid- 1960’s to 2014, explain how a Showcase House is chosen, and may even reveal which home is said to have a ghostly resident.

The book also chronicles PSHA’s philanthropic work over the years. A visit to the Showcase Houses benefits the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra, the PSHA Music Mobile™, a Youth Concert, and the Pasadena Showcase House Instrumental Competition. The PSHA volunteers are united by a belief in the power and beauty of music. Their collective desire is to fund programs that nurture the study and appreciation of music, utilize music as a vehicle towards health and healing, and ensure that music is available to a broad range of audiences.

For more information about PSHA, the Pasadena Showcase House of Design, visit www.PasadenaShowcase.org. or call 626-578-8500.

Come to Crowell Library May 28th to learn about these architectural gems that have been highlighted through the fabulous work by one of Pasadena’s most treasured charities.

Celebrity Illnesses: What They Mean to Us

Thursday May 22, 2014 7:00 p.m.

Celebrities are important in our lives and culture. They entertain us, amaze us, astonish us, and amuse us. When they become ill, it can almost seem like one of the family is stricken. Because they are in the spotlight, their illness can generate significant increases in fundraising for research and cures. Their challenges can also give reasons to examine one’s own health practices. DR. CARY PRESANT will discuss a roster of celebrities and their conditions, and give tips about how their struggles can inspire one to get better health care today. Last March, Dr. Presant presented an engaging and well-attended talk on Surviving American Medicine at Crowell Library that included a plethora of insights into our healthcare system.

A San Marino resident, Cary A. Presant, M.D., F.A.C.P., has been a practicing hematologist and medical oncologist in Southern California since 1979. He was the director of cancer programs at Washington University School of Medicine, the Jewish Hospital of St. Louis, Citrus Valley Health Partners, and St. Vincent Medical Center in Los Angeles. After being Director of Medical Oncology at City of Hope National Medical Center, he started a private practice in West Covina in 1982. In 2004, he merged his Center with Wilshire Oncology Medical Group, Inc. and is currently a Clinical Professor of Medicine at the University of Southern California, Keck School of Medicine. He received his medical degree in 1966 from the State University of New York at Buffalo and completed postdoctoral training at Columbia University in New York City, the National Cancer Institute in Bethesda, Maryland and Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, Missouri. He is the author of Surviving American Medicine: How to Get the Right Doctor, Right Hospital and Right Treatment with Today’s Health Care, published by Bloomington iUniverse.

This program is free to the public. Light refreshments will be served.

San Marino 1914 …What’s Happening?

Monday May 19, 2014 7:00 p.m.

In the spring of 1913, the city of San Marino incorporated, partly to avoid being taken over by a neighboring town with higher property taxes. In 1914, one year later, what was going on? How was the new little city working? What was going on in the 48 United States? KEN VERONDA, Headmaster of Southwestern Academy, will entertain one and all with a historical lecture on this era at Crowell Public Library Monday, May 19th at 7:00 p.m. Ken will impart the issues and perspectives of that day including the problems with the schoolhouse, Alhambra’s outrageous charges for their services here, and the infestations of rats throughout the orange groves and farms. Water had started flowing into the empty San Fernando Valley and the county was nearing a half-million people. Pasadena’s streets were congested with motor cars, and their odorous exhaust was fouling San Marino’s air. Some fine new homes were being constructed on the golf course along the city’s northern border, though many feared they will only add to the crowded valley. There were reports of an increasing threat of war with Mexico and the son of the town’s board president was preparing to fight. European nations were bickering again, but fortunately the U.S. was far from being involved.
Ken Veronda holds degrees in history from Stanford University. He is a lifelong member of the community and is a past president of Rotary Club of San Marino and the San Marino City Club. He is a sought-after speaker on the history of the San Gabriel Valley.

Come hear what’s happened since San Marino City was organized in 1913, how the farms and towns of our San Gabriel Valley were doing, and how the people were responding to the social and political changes swirling around. This program is free and open to the public.

Helping Hands for Hand-Held Devices

Monday, May 12, 6:00 p.m.

Electronically savvy students from San Marino High School will be available on Monday night, May 12th from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. at Crowell Public Library’s Thornton Room to help people figure out how to use their hand-held devices. Lots of people have their own iPods, Androids, tablets, iPhones, and other devices, but they can’t figure out some of the features. The teen volunteers are pretty familiar with many of the concepts behind these devices, so even if they haven’t used a particular device, they may be able to help a person figure out what to do. The Library works with teens to try to match them up with those who are perplexed with their gadgets. During a similar session in April, patrons were quite pleased with the assistance they received from these service-oriented teenagers.

If you are frustrated with online support options, come to Crowell Library and work with a living, breathing techie that will help you “bond” with your device. There’s nothing like one-on-one assistance to help solve problems and tackle sticky widgets. To reserve your spot for this program and to match volunteers with patrons and types of devices, please call 626-300-0777, extension 579 to make a reservation as soon as possible. There are a limited number of teen volunteers, so slots will fill quickly!

For more information, visit our website www.CrowellPublicLibrary.org
1890 Huntington Drive, San Marino, California 91108

How to Become a Mystery Shopper

Thursday, May 8, 7:00 p.m.

How would you like to get paid to go shopping? Mystery shopping is used by hundreds of well-known businesses to ensure consistent, top-quality service from their employees. It’s a splendid way to earn extra money and have fun at the same time, doing what you love to do. ELAINE MORAN, author of How to Become a Mystery Shopper will share her insights into this fun and exciting career path. Learn about the structure of the industry, the roles of schedulers, editors and contractors. Secret Shopping can be fun and free. In a world filled with get-rich-quick scams, there are legitimate resources on how to become the shopping spy that clients love and friends and neighbors envy.

Elaine is a “Mystery Shopper of the Year” nominee, who has written a read-today, start-today guide. She has been a successful business owner, teacher, administrator, and entrepreneur her entire adult life. She has taught a variety of business classes in colleges on the West Coast since the mid 1980s, possesses a California Community College Instructor Credential (Lifetime), and has worked part time as a mystery shopper for over 20 years. In the year 2000, Elaine developed a mystery shopping program which has become tremendously popular. It has been instrumental in helping hundreds of attendees get started in this rapidly growing industry.

Whether you're a college student, senior citizen, or somewhere in between, mystery shopping is a fun way to earn part time income and engage in new and exciting adventures. Elaine will share her experiences and keep you entertained with "almost caught" scenarios. If you love adventure and want to brighten your day, be sure to attend this informative presentation at Crowell Public Library, Thursday, May 8 at 7:00 p.m. Light refreshments will be served.

LA Opera Talk: Jules Massenet’s Thaïs

Sunday, May 4, 2:00 p.m.

Religion, ecstasy, lust… these are the fundamental motivations of the opera Thaïs by Jules Massenet. With a libretto by Louis Gallet based on a novel by the Nobel Prize-winning Anatole France, the opera tells of the conflict between the love of human pleasures and a devotion to God that ultimately consumes the lives of the two principal characters — the monk Athanaël and the courtesan Thaïs.

Using video clips from DVDs of three different productions of the opera, Community Educator RON STREICHER will present an uncensored exposé of the fate of this classic "fallen woman." (Because of the provocative sexual references and nudity, this presentation is rated "R" - not recommended for children.) Like Manon, which was written only a few years earlier, Thaïs was composed at the height of La Belle Epoque in Paris and is one of the most well-known of Massenet's more than two dozen operas.

Ron Streicher began his career in music as a pianist, percussionist, and choral conductor. His interest migrated to audio production while a volunteer for the music department of a public radio station in LA. That avocation subsequently evolved into a career that now spans nearly five decades as an independent audio consultant and recording engineer specializing in live performances.

Ron’s love for opera was kindled while playing tympani in the pit orchestra of the UCLA Opera Theatre and rapidly grew to an overwhelming passion. His career as an audio engineer has afforded him the opportunity to work with the touring companies of the New York City Opera and Metropolitan Opera, and during his eighteen summers with the Aspen Music Festival and School, he served as the recording engineer and sound designer for more than fifty opera productions. His book, The New Stereo Soundbook is now in its third edition and has gained worldwide recognition as a standard reference on the subject of stereophonic perception, recording, and reproduction techniques.
Mark this date on the social calendar as Crowell Library celebrates LA Opera’s 2013/2014 season. Light refreshments will be served.

Movietown Baby Grows Up

Thursday April 24: 7:00 p.m.

Movietown Baby Grows Up is a blithe reminiscence of Hollywood in the 30s, 40s, and 50s, and the life of one family as seen through the eyes of the youngest child. It is the story of William A. Seiter, director of 131 films, his wife Marian Nixon, actress in 73 films, how they made their way to fame, and yet lead a normal family life in spite of governesses, glamorous parties, and famous friends. Movietown Baby Grows Up is a vivid scrapbook with pictures interspersed through the rambling adventures of daughter Jessica Seiter Niblo’s not-so-ordinary memories.

William A. Seiter started working in Hollywood in 1915 as a stunt double and bit player and quickly graduated to directing comedy shorts. He moved up to features in the 1920s, directing such comedy legends as Laurel & Hardy (“Sons of the Desert”), Abbott and Costello (“Little Giant”), the Marx Brothers and W.C. Fields. He directed Shirley Temple in four features and Ginger Rogers and Fred Astaire in “Roberta,” and “You Were Never Lovelier” with Rita Hayworth and Fred Astaire. He helmed scores of television productions and was one of the founding members of the Directors Guild of America. Marian Nixon, aka “the nicest girl in Hollywood,” began her movie career in 1923 with “Cupid's Fireman” when she was nineteen. She was one of those fortunate actresses who made the successful transition to the "talkie" era. Her final film was “Tango” in 1936.

Daughter, Jessica Seiter Niblo, who will speak at Crowell Library on Thursday, April 24, worked at MGM for nine years as a production coordinator and secretary to television executive David Gerber. In addition to being an author, Jessica is a generous fundraiser, providing educational opportunities and scholarships that have profoundly improved the lives of many young people. Don’t miss this special evening on the golden age of Hollywood!

The Science of Learning: Unlocking Human Potential

On Monday, April 14th at 7:00 p.m., Dr. Yu-Wen Taylor will present today’s best thinking on how learning works, based on a convergence of evidence from cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, and neuroscience. “The Science of Learning: Unlocking Human Potential” will reveal why some people are more effective learners than others and debunk common misconceptions about learning which hinder effort and motivation. Participants will understand high-leverage points for improving learning outcomes and gain the skills to cultivate mindsets conducive to learning. Strategies for improving meta-cognition and self-regulation will also be discussed. This workshop will be a must for parents, educators or any lifelong learner. Participants will have the opportunity to assess their learning quotient (LQ) – a more potent indicator of a person’s potential for success than the intelligence quotient (IQ).

YU-WEN TAYLOR is an educator whose mission is to help people become passionate and effective lifelong learners. She earned a Doctorate in Education from USC, an M.A. in Education from Stanford, and a B.A. from U.C. Berkeley. She has taught at various grade levels for over eleven years and has coached and developed teachers. As the Learning Director of an entrepreneurial company in Silicon Valley, she fostered collaboration between the public and private sectors to improve the learning outcomes of K through 12 students. As an Education Consultant, Dr. Taylor advised the Ministry of Education in China on curricular and instructional issues relating to international and second language programs. She is currently conducting research on learning in the twenty-first century and the globalization of education to help policymakers, leaders, and stakeholders understand the complexity of learning in today’s world. She is a resident of San Marino and a Recreation Commissioner for the City.

Dr. Taylor believes that in this multifaceted and rapidly changing society, to master learning is to master life. If you are curious about how to unlock human potential, you won’t want to miss this special program at Crowell Public Library.

Preparing Your Heirs

Wednesday March 19: 7:00 p.m.

According to Roy Williams and Vic Preisser in their book, Preparing Heirs: Five Steps to a Successful Transition of Family Wealth and Values, studies show that 70% of heirs lose control of their inheritance within one generation and 93% within three generations. The loss of wealth is also often combined with a loss of pride, self-esteem, family harmony and productivity. In extreme cases, many wealth heirs turn to destructive behaviors such as substance abuse, loss of motivation and a culture of entitlement. Preparing Your Heirs will inform and educate parents on how to empower their children to lead independent, meaningful and purposeful lives. The program will present practical tools parents can deploy every day on how best to have those challenging conversations with family members and open up safe and productive channels of communication from one generation to the next.

AMIR MOSSANEN is a Senior Vice President and Wealth Advisor for Wells Fargo Private Bank and is responsible for understanding and managing the financial situations for high net worth clients. He specializes in multi-generational planning, family education and succession planning. He has authored papers on the multi-generational wealth transfer and developed family dynamics workshops to enhance harmony and effectiveness across generations. He is also the author of “The Giving Dilemma,” “Beating the Midas Curse,” and “Coping with Sudden Wealth Syndrome.” Prior to his career in wealth management, Amir was a management consultant working with Fortune 500 companies and government agencies on strategy creation and implementation. He earned a Masters in Business Administration with a specialization on Customer Focused Strategy and his MBA thesis on fixed income arbitrage was awarded a distinction for its unique insights.

Come to Crowell Library for an informative evening on the exceptional risks that children of affluence face and how best to mitigate those risks.

The Sacramento and San Joaquin Delta and its Importance to California in the Past and in the Future

Monday, February 24, 7:00 p.m.

This week in Sacramento a drought bill known as H.R. 3964 is up for a vote. “The Sacramento-San Joaquin Valley Emergency Water Delivery Act” is authored by Representative David Valadao of Hanford (R-CA21), and seeks to loosen some restrictions and provide more water to farmers in the Central Valley, some say at the expense of the San Joaquin River Restoration Program. In the midst of an historic drought, and what Governor Jerry Brown has declared a drought emergency, Californians more than ever need to understand all aspects our most precious resource and where we get it. The San Marino Historical Society and Crowell Public Library invite one and all to hear Debra Man address this topic in depth at the Library, Monday, February 24, at 7:00 p.m.

Debra Man is the Chief Operating Officer of the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California and a San Marino resident. She will explain the history of the Delta, how it impacted California during the Gold Rush, what has happened to it since, and what is needed to keep it as an asset for California’s future as the state struggles with the least amount of rainfall in its 163-year history. Resolving the existing conflicts in the Delta between water supply and environmental needs will significantly improve the water supply reliability for all water users that rely on water from the Delta which includes San Marino.

This program is free and open to the public. It will take place in the Library’s Barth Community Room.

Two books, San Marino: A Centennial History by Elizabeth Pomeroy and The Story of Michael White, a California Rebel Pioneer by Dorothy Jenkins Ross will be available for purchase from the Historical Society.

The more the merrier! Share this event on Facebook & Twitter.
https://www.facebook.com/CrowellPublicLibrarySanMarino
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For more information, visit our website www.CrowellPublicLibrary.org
CROWELL PUBLIC LIBRARY 1890 Huntington Drive, San Marino, California 91108

LA Opera Talk: Gaetano Donizetti’s Lucia Di Lammermoor (“Love is a Madness”)

Sunday, February 16, 2:00 p.m.

If you can’t make it to the Music Center or you’d like to broaden your understanding of Donizetti and his music, come to Crowell Library on February 16 at 2:00 p.m. for this special LA Opera Talk. Community Educator LARRY VERDUGO, who presented the Library’s LA Opera Program on Britten’s Turn of the Screw in 2011 and Billy Budd last month, will reveal some fascinating facts in a multi-media presentation in the Library’s Barth Community Room. The program is free and open to all opera aficionados and first timers.

Lucia Di Lammermoor is a romantic tale of family honor, betrayal and madness that takes place in Scotland and is one of Donizetti's most popular works. Larry Verdugo will describe Donizetti’s life, the music and the story depicted in the opera: forced by her family to marry against her will, Lucia descends into madness. Her chilling, blood-spattered reappearance at the wedding reception has become one of the most iconic scenes in all opera. A tour-de-force of Italian Romantic opera at its most powerful and dramatic, Lucia di Lammermoor is the gleaming jewel in opera’s bel canto crown.
Opera is not just magnificent music, dance and theater with astounding sets on a beautiful stage; opera can sweep you away to foreign lands, take you back in time, dazzle you with pageantry and bring history to life. It is literature, social studies, cultural diversity, multiple languages and most of all, it is exciting! Come explore the world of opera which has something for everyone.
Mark this date on the social calendar as Crowell Library celebrates LA Opera’s 2013/2014 season. Light refreshments will be served.

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Deadly Times: The 1910 Bombing of the Los Angeles Times and America's Forgotten Decade of Terror

Thursday, February 20, 7:00 p.m.

The bombing of the Los Angeles Times on October 1, 1910 remains one of the deadliest crimes ever to go to trial in California. At least 20 workers at the Times died in the explosion and the fire that followed. More than 100 others were injured. On Thursday, February 20th in the Library’s Barth Community, learn all about it from author and journalist Lew Irwin, when he presents this fascinating look into Los Angeles history at 7:00 p.m.

The story of the bombing, the manhunt for the perpetrators, and the aftermath that would wreck the career of America's most famous attorney and set back the American labor movement by a generation, makes for fascinating reading, particularly at a time when terrorism again threatens American society. The magnificent cast of characters includes: General Harrison Gray Otis, owner of the Los Angeles Times, whose determined effort to keep Los Angeles non-union led to its being singled out as a bombing target; William J. Burns, who tracked down the bombers and became the first director of the FBI and founder of what remains the largest private security organization in the world; Earl Rogers, the brilliant criminal attorney, who became Erle Stanley Gardner's model for Perry Mason; the legendary attorney Clarence Darrow, who defended the bombers but who in desperation attempted to bribe two jurors; the muckraking journalist Lincoln Steffens, who had hoped to persuade the bombers to confess to him, thereby giving him the scoop of a lifetime.
Author Lew Irwin has had a hand in nearly every facet of news and information broadcasting. His career in journalism began in high school at the Los Angeles Times where he researched a sports trivia column. While still an undergraduate at USC, he was hired to host News Today, a nationally syndicated radio program whose regular contributors included Eleanor Roosevelt and legendary commentator H. V. Kaltenborn. For the next 15 years, Irwin's was a familiar face and voice in Southern California as he anchored television news programs or directed the news operations of leading radio stations, always adding a flair for humor and for pointing out the extraordinary. In 1968, he produced and hosted The Credibility Gap on KRLA Los Angeles, which integrated topical satire and music with the news. Time and Newsweek wrote full-page articles about it, and it was featured in a long segment on the CBS Evening News with Walter Cronkite. He currently is the publisher/editor of Studio Briefing, a daily digest of entertainment industry news. (http://www.studiobriefing.net)

On Deadly Times: The 1910 Bombing of the Los Angeles Times and America's Forgotten Decade of Terror by Lew Irwin:
Harry Chandler has called it, "a most fascinating and can't-put-down story."
"A gripping must-read tale of turbulent times." -- Dr. John Horgan, director, International Center for the Study of Terrorism, Penn State University

"Irwin, a veteran television journalist, is an artist in prose." -- Anthony Mostrom, L.A. Weekly

"Masterfully" written. -- Publishers Weekly

Crowell Library’s Open House

Saturday, January 25, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

A recent Pew Internet survey found that most Americans know where their local library is, but many are unfamiliar with all the services they offer.* On Saturday, January 25th, Crowell Public Library will demonstrate for its community the amazing selection of services and programs it has to offer when the library celebrates is sixth anniversary with an open house. For those who haven’t visited a library in awhile, surprises will be abundant. With the help of the Library Foundation and the Friends of the Library, Crowell will toot its own big horn from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The library has programs for seniors, teens and kids, cultural programs, historical programs, passport acceptance, test proctoring and local art on display. During the Open House there will be demonstrations on how to use the Library’s databases and online applications that help patrons with tests, finding a job, downloading an ebook, finding money for college, learning a language as well as finding a good book to read. Visitors will be equally impressed with the selection of DVDs and CDs available for checkout.

At noon, the Library’s Foundation will announce the annual bookmark contest winners and then the Friends of the Library will present the titles and authors in their 2014 Meet the Authors series. This year they have expanded from One Book, One City to Four Books, One City. It just keeps getting better! Local vendors will be offering snacks and treats and the Friends Book Shoppe will have a 25% off everything sale: an enticement at every turn, inside the Library and out in the patio.

An Open House is the perfect way to demonstrate how Crowell Public Library has something for everyone. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn about and appreciate the local institution whose goal is to provide a gathering place, an information center, a technology hub, and a book and media collection to serve the educational, cultural, and recreational interests of people of all ages.

*http://libraries.pewinternet.org/2013/12/11/libraries-in-communities/